Samsung wind energy project brings 500 jobs to Scotland
31/01/2012 16:11
Samsung Heavy Industries is expected to bring 500 new jobs to Scotland with the announcement it is basing its first European wind energy project in Fife. The South Korean company announced the multi-million pound project at the Scottish Offshore Wind and Supply Chain Conference in Aberdeen on Monday January 31st, and has already started signing deals with local companies.
David Brown Gear Systems has formed an agreement with Samsung to provide gearbox systems for its next generation offshore wind turbine, which will be developed at the energy Energy Park in Fife.
If demonstrations of Samsung's technology prove successful, the £100 million investment will lead to the creation of nacelle, gear box assembly and blade manufacturing facilities in Scotland.
The investment will bring with it around 500 new jobs and significant investment in the local economy.
Insik Roh, chief executive officer of Samsung Heavy Industries, said: "The testing of the new 7MW offshore wind turbine at the Fife Energy Park signifies a milestone in the development of Samsung's new wind turbine generator system.
"We hope to contribute to the Scottish economy through successful testing and certification of our cutting edge offshore wind turbine and ultimately through establishment of our manufacturing facility here in Methil."
The company will now work with Scottish Enterprise and Fife Council to develop the project.
Scotland produces the lion's share of renewable energy generated in the UK and boasts a thriving wind industry, producing 37 per cent of all renewable generation in 2010, despite having just eight per cent of the population.
Click here for the latest jobs in
Scotland from Randstad.
Posted by Chris Burnham
